Jaipur, June 17 (IANS) Rajasthan’s flagship conservation programme for the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard has achieved another milestone, with the bird’s population at breeding centres in Jaisalmer rising to 94 following the successful hatching of three new chicks, including two through artificial insemination.

The latest additions have emerged from the ongoing captive breeding programme being run since 2018 under the Great Indian Bustard (GIB) conservation project.

Forest officials said the breeding season is still underway, raising hopes of further population growth in the coming weeks.

Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav welcomed the development, describing it as a significant success in efforts to save one of the world’s most endangered bird species.

According to Desert National Park Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Brijmohan Gupta, one chick hatched from an egg safely collected from the wild, while two others emerged from eggs obtained through artificial insemination at the breeding centre.

The conservation programme is currently being operated at two dedicated facilities in Jaisalmer district — Sudasari near Sam and Ramdevra.

Both centres function under the Forest Department and the GIB Recovery Programme.

Experts at these centres monitor the birds round the clock, incubate eggs and rear chicks using scientific breeding and conservation techniques.

Officials said the strategic collection of eggs from the wild has played a crucial role in strengthening the genetic diversity of the captive population.

By introducing eggs from different wild breeding pairs, conservationists can reduce genetic bottlenecks and improve the long-term health and adaptability of future generations.

The approach also protects eggs from predators and other threats in their natural habitat.

“The biggest advantage is that it enhances genetic diversity and increases the chances of building a healthier and more resilient population,” Gupta said.

As part of efforts to protect the species, a 64-metre underground passage is also being constructed near Ramdevra at a cost of approximately Rs 6.25 crore.

The project is aimed at improving habitat connectivity and reducing risks to the birds.

With the latest hatchings, the total Great Indian Bustard population across the two breeding centres has reached 94, a significant achievement for a species whose numbers in the wild had declined alarmingly over the years.

Forest officials said the steady increase demonstrates the success of scientific conservation measures and provides renewed hope for the revival of Rajasthan’s state bird.

“The breeding season is still in progress, and more eggs are under observation. We are optimistic that the population will increase further,” Gupta said.

–IANS

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